Lot 145 - 1933 Rolls-Royce 20/25 Touring Saloon by Park Ward

A logical progression from Rolls-Royce's first `owner driver' model, the 20hp, the 20/25hp was introduced in 1929 and remained in production until 1936. Near identical to its forebear, at least to begin with, the newcomer enjoyed a greater turn of speed thanks to an enlarged 3669cc, overhead valve, straight-six engine. Fed by a single Rolls-Royce carburettor and carrying both magneto and coil ignition, the super-smooth power plant was mounted in unit with a four-speed manual gearbox (the latter operated via a traditional right-hand change). Capable of supporting a wide variety of coachwork, the 20/25hp's substantial ladder frame chassis was equipped with all-round semi-elliptic leaf-sprung suspension, four-wheel drum brakes and a mechanical servo.

This strikingly handsome Park Ward saloon was originally supplied by Agnew Graham in Belfast; the invoice price being an eye-watering £1,537-17s-3d. The body is by Park Ward and is similar to the Rolls-Royce test car 20-G-IV ‘The Goshawk’. After being found in a sorrowful state in 1998 by Professor Ian Craft, he then set about restoring the car. The current vendor has owned the Rolls-Royce since 2007 and has lovingly cherished her. Being a very fastidious owner, he wasn’t happy with the way she was running and put CZ 2002 into Sargeants of Goudhurst for a full engine rebuild. Invoices for over £45,000 are available confirming the significant investment this 20/25 has benefitted from in recent years. The two-tone blue coachwork is in good order and the ample chromework is delightful as is the red leather interior. With style, class and opulence in abundance, this Rolls-Royce 20/25 by Park Ward is powered by a 3669cc straight-six engine and we are advised drives extremely well. Supplied with a V5C registration document and a significant history folder, this pre-war Rolls-Royce is one of the best examples we have seen for some time.

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Interested parties should satisfy themselves as to the description and condition of each lot prior to the sale. Buyers are advised to inspect the car in person or use a professional to carry out this service.